Hyundai hint at new diesel engine

South Korean car firm Hyundai has revealed some details of its new advanced diesel engine as part of a bid to increase its profile and market share in Europe.

The R-Engine is due to enter production next year and will first be seen in the 2010 Tuscon and Sonata models.

The engine will be available in two sizes: 2.0 and 2.2-litres with outputs of 184 and 200 horsepower respectively. Hyundai claims the R-Engine will outperform its German and French competitors.

The R-Engine features a third-generation 1,800-bar piezo-electric common rail system developed by Bosch. It also features an electronic variable-geometry turbocharger and an advanced engine control unit.

The all-aluminium R-Engine is fitted with a 16-valve dual overhead camshaft which is driven by an internal steel silent timing chain.

To be compliant with Euro-5 emission rules, the R is fitted with a close-coupled diesel particulate filter and exhaust gas recirculation with by-pass valve.

Hyundai invested around £123 million in the development of the engine and went through more than 500 prototype engines during the 42-month development period.